My First Read and Learn Book of Prayers by Dr. Mary Manz Simon
Scholastic Inc., NY, 2007
This is no joke—I loved this little kids’ book! Sometimes, when I pray, it’s short, sweet, and simple. These short, kid-friendly prayers are perfect for any time of the day. They help both you and your children slide into a restful, graceful sleep. So, read it to the kids, read it for yourself, and share it with anyone. You can even put the prayers on note cards for later or create your own versions. Just do it!
When I wake up, I start my day with a prayer. It’s my time with God, and it’s the last thing I do before I lower my head as the sun sets. In a world that has become so complicated, you need a moment of light and help in your life to raise your children, and it can help them too. My favorite prayer in this book is:
“Good night, God, it’s time for bed. Time to rest my sleepy head. Keep me safe all through the night. Till I awake at morning light.”
This prayer reminds me of my mom, who taught it to me just before she kissed me goodnight. It relaxed her as she sighed, and I saw sleep come to her eyes.
This book also beautifully relates nature and humans with joy and hope as we journey through life together on Earth. And that’s cool! Check out this first Bible reader for your kids and yourself. Have some fun reading it to your kids, your grandkids, or even your husband just after kissing him goodnight before turning off the lights. Pass it along to friends too. Remember, laughing out loud is joyful, which God says is good, and science says it releases those wonderful endorphins that keep you healthy. Guess God thought of this too—He’s so cool!